If you feel your doctors aren't communicating with one another, you might be right. Continuity of care is becoming increasingly challenging as managed care organizations determine where we can go to get our treatment. Sometimes, it doesn't all take place under the same roof.

To help ensure that everyone is on the same page, always ask for copies of your medical records after each visit or test. Keep them organized in a file and bring those documents to each of your visits.

The medical oncologist didn't get a copy of your pathology results from the surgeon? You've got it. Pull it out, ask that it be copied (you keep the original), and then follow up with the surgeon's office to remind them how important it is that your records be sent promptly to your doctors. If you're just embarking on breast cancer treatment, ask each of your doctors how they go about keeping one another informed.

You deserve smooth and efficient care. Making sure that your doctors are communicating and sharing important information about your health will take one less worry off your mind so you can focus all of your attention on getting well.